Tahira G Adelekan, MD

Dr. Tahira Adelekan is chief of the developmental pediatrics division at Dayton Children's. She supports children with developmental delays and neurodevelopmental conditions, including autism spectrum disorder. Dr. Adelekan evaluates how children learn, grow and communicate, and helps families understand what those differences mean. She also cares for babies in a NICU follow‑up clinic, helping them stay on track after an early start. She connects families with the right therapies, services and community resources to support each child’s development and wellbeing. 

Dr. Adelekan believes the best care starts with listening. She partners with families to create clear, personalized plans based on their goals and their child’s needs. Her approach is compassionate, evidence‑based and focused on the whole child and family. Dr. Adelekan finds joy in watching children develop and helping families feel confident and supported. She loves celebrating each milestone and cheering kids on as they reach their full potential.

Awards & Honors

• Jerome Epstein Developmental Pediatrics Endowed Chair, Dayton Children’s Hospital

Organizations

• American Academy of Pediatrics
• Gem City Medical, Dental and Pharmaceutical Society
• Society for Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics

Research, Publications, Presentations & More

• Adelekan T, Walton JR. Prioritizing Psychosocial Interventions for Disruptive Behaviors. Pediatrics. 2026 Feb 1;157(2):e2025072595. doi: 10.1542/peds.2025-072595
• Antosh S, Drennan C, Stolfi A, Lawson R, Huntley E, McCullough-Roach R, Hill M, Adelekan T, Vachhrajani S. Use of an adaptive sensory environment in patients with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in the perioperative environment: a parallel, randomized controlled trial. Lancet Reg Health Am. 2024 Apr 18;33:100736. doi: 10.1016/j.lana.2024.100736.
• Adelekan T, Magge S, Shults J, Stallings V, Stettler N. Lipid Profiles of Children With Down Syndrome Compared With Their Siblings. Pediatrics. 2012 Jun;129(6):e1382-7.